Uncovering Implied Meanings in Kabyle Proverbs: A Qualitative Analysis Using the Hallidayan Model of Context of Situation

Abstract

Proverbs are concise and memorable expressions that reflect the values and beliefs of a society, serving as practical guides for people’s behavior and daily living. This is particularly seen in Kabyle culture. This study aims to uncover the concealed meanings within Kabyle proverbs used in the city of Tizi-Ouzou. It applies the Hallidayan model of context of situation to examine two main hypotheses. Firstly, it investigates whether implied meanings exist within Kabyle proverbs. Secondly, it assesses whether the Hallidayan model effectively reveals these hidden insights. Through a qualitative analysis, 10 selected Kabyle proverbs were examined, and were gathered from a diverse sample including 32 online and 28 offline participants of various age groups. Utilizing the Hallidayan approach, the collected proverbs underwent analysis. The findings reveal the presence of implied meanings, reflecting the cultural values and collective experiences of the Kabyle people, thereby demonstrating the efficacy of this approach in uncovering hidden meanings within Kabyle proverbs. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of Kabyle society.